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Writer's pictureShannon Clark

Why Choose Steel Trusses Over Wood Trusses in Pole Barn Construction?

When it comes to constructing durable and long-lasting pole barns or post frame buildings, the choice of truss plays a pivotal role. While wood trusses have been a traditional choice, there's a rising trend in opting for steel trusses and many reasons why you should choose steel trusses over wood trusses. In this blog, we'll delve into the advantages of using a metal trusses over their wooden counterparts, emphasizing the strength and reliability they bring to the construction of pole barns and post frame buildings.


  • Cost-Efficiency: One of the primary advantages of opting for the metal truss over the wood truss is cost-efficiency. While initial costs may seem higher for steel trusses, their long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment.

    1. Steel trusses have a longer lifespan, requiring minimal maintenance and repairs compared to wood trusses.

    2. Additionally, steel is not susceptible to pests, rot, or decay, ensuring that your structure remains sturdy and reliable for many years, ultimately saving you money in the long run.

    3. Finally, the simplicity and span capabilities of steel trusses allows for faster construction time and reduced materials, saving you on labor and material costs.

  • Unmatched Strength and Durability: Steel trusses are renowned for their unparalleled strength and durability. They can withstand extreme weather conditions, including heavy snow loads and high winds, providing a level of structural integrity that surpasses that of wood trusses. This durability ensures a longer lifespan for your building, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements. The robust nature of steel trusses also makes them an ideal choice for larger structures, adding an extra layer of reliability to your construction project. And, as previously mentioned, unlike wood, which may succumb to rot, decay, or insect infestations over time, steel trusses resist these threats effortlessly. This robustness ensures that your metal building, barn home, workshop, carport, pole barn or post frame building stands tall against the test of time, weather, and environmental factors.

  • Longevity and Low Maintenance: One of the key advantages of choosing steel trusses is their extended lifespan and low maintenance requirements. Because steel doesn't warp, twist, or split like wood, it reduces the need for frequent repairs. This characteristic not only adds to the longevity of the structure, but also minimizes ongoing maintenance costs, making it a cost-effective choice in the long run.

  • Greater Span Capabilities / Versatility in Design: Steel trusses offer superior spanning capabilities and versatility compared to their wooden counterparts. This allows for more flexible and spacious designs in pole barns or post frame buildings without the need for additional support columns. The increased span capacity provides architects and builders with greater design freedom and allows for larger open spaces within the structure. This feature is particularly advantageous for those looking to customize their buildings for specific purposes, such as agricultural storage, workshops, or commercial spaces. The adaptability of steel trusses enables architects and builders to create innovative and functional designs to meet diverse needs.

True Metal Supply Parallel Chord Steel Truss Purlin Cups
True Metal Supply Parallel Chord Steel Truss Purlin Cups
  • Faster Construction Time / Ease of Installation: Metal trusses are prefabricated off-site, which significantly speeds up the construction process. Unlike wood trusses that may require on-site cutting and adjustments, steel trusses are manufactured with precision, ensuring a seamless assembly process. The faster construction time not only reduces labor costs but also allows you to complete your project more quickly. Not only is the process faster, but installation of steel trusses is much easier. Metal trusses are lightweight, require minimal material, and often have purlin cups to simplify installation.

  • Resistance to Fire and Environmental Elements: Steel trusses have inherent fire-resistant properties, making them a safer choice in comparison to wood. Additionally, they are resistant to environmental elements such as moisture, which can cause degradation in wood over time. This resistance ensures that your pole barn or post frame building remains structurally sound, even in challenging weather conditions.

  • Eco-Friendly and Recyclable: Opting for steel trusses contributes to eco-friendly construction practices. Steel is a recyclable material, and using it in the construction of pole barns and metal buildings aligns with sustainable building principles. Choosing steel trusses not only ensures a strong and durable structure but also reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility.

In conclusion, the shift towards using steel trusses in pole barn and post frame construction is driven by the desire for strength, durability, and sustainability. The unmatched benefits of metal trusses make them an ideal choice for those looking to build structures that stand tall and resilient in the face of time and environmental challenges. As the construction industry evolves, the reliability and longevity of the steel truss will continue to shape the future of pole barns and post frame buildings.


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